Tour the Police Building Cupola Penthouse

At the nexus of Soho and Nolita, the Police Building stands as one of New York City’s most important examples of Edwardian Baroque architecture and Beaux Arts design.

A truly unparalleled residence, this grand four-story cupola penthouse sits majestically atop the landmarked Police Building, which was designed by Hoppin & Koen in 1909, served as city police headquarters until 1973, and was transformed into luxury apartments in 1988.

A recent remodel combined two apartments, creating one regal 5,500-square-foot home in two wings. In the northern wing are a light-filled kitchen with views of the city skyline, a marble island, and appliances from Viking, Sub-Zero, and Bosch; an inviting formal dining room with vintage sliding etched-glass doors; and a relaxed, warmly lit media room with an eye-catching coffered ceiling.

A dramatic spiral staircase and a private elevator lead to the pièce de résistance, the awe-inspiring 32-foot circular living room, nestled inside the dome. Outside the enveloping Palladian windows are terraces affording views of the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, Frank Gehry’s new skyscraper, the Woolworth Building, One World Trade Center, and the other iconic buildings of the Financial District.

A second flight of stairs leads to the more casual dome “sanctuary” — created when two additional floors above the main dome were discovered — where four of the building’s original clocks act as whimsical windows.

The dome’s mezzanine was transformed into the master suite, which includes a large walk-in outfitted by California Closets and a lavish bath with a hand-made glass mosaic mural and fittings and fixtures by Kohler. At sunset, west-facing windows fill the bedroom with a romantic warm light.

Two guest bedroom suites, a family room, and a butler’s pantry occupy the second wing. The home’s five baths have been tastefully remodeled and include fixtures by Kohler and Dornbracht.

Every light fixture is antique, vintage, or custom-made; and state-of-the-art stereo, Internet, telephone, and video surveillance systems with Crestron controls have been installed throughout.

This home’s former residents have included Steffi Graf and Calvin Klein. Its unique character, aesthetic preeminence, and historical significance make it one of the most interesting, exceptional, and highly sought-after properties in New York.